OT Levels

Operating Thetan (OT) levels are essentially higher-level teachings in Scientology, which are confidential and only revealed to members who have advanced within the organization. These levels are part of what's called the Bridge to Total Freedom. They begin after reaching the state of "Clear", where a member has supposedly gotten rid of their reactive mind—thought to be a source of pain and irrational behavior.

The OT levels are primarily focused on dealing with what are believed to be disembodied spirits, or "body thetans" (BTs), that attach themselves to individuals and are a source of spiritual turmoil. The process includes techniques aiming to rid oneself of these BTs through auditing sessions, which are a form of spiritual counseling unique to Scientology.

In Scientology lore, OT levels were said by L. Ron Hubbard (the founder) to extend beyond OT VIII, all the way up to OT XV, but these higher levels have not been released and might not exist. Scientologists are led to believe more levels exist, which keeps them hopeful of attaining greater spiritual powers. Interestingly, it's suggested that even David Miscavige, the current leader of Scientology, is aware that these promised higher levels do not actually exist, but this knowledge is hidden to maintain structure within the organization and keep followers striving for more advancements on the Bridge 1 2.

The entire belief system around OT levels, while deeply ingrained among its practitioners, is seen critically from the outside due to its secretive nature and the significant mental and financial commitment required from members to progress through these levels.